Northern Irish rock band Snow Patrol is collaborating with Apple on an app for iPhones and iPods, reports say. Music Week writes that the app will be released in advance of the band's fifth studio album, and will work as
Minggu, 14 September 2008
Slovenia-based Gorenje used IFA to introduce the first refrigerator to feature an iPod and iPhone dock. The product is officially endorsed by Apple, and offers a docking port that will stream music from the personal Apple devices. In addition to playing the content of and charging the devices, users who plug their Wi-Fi-equipped iPhones or iPod Touch devices into the dock will be able to control their appliances' operation via a network and the iGorenj software.
Despite the name, the software not only works with the Apple devices, but other wireless Internet capable devices such as smart phones and PCs. Gorenje promises to soon reveal more kitchen appliances compatible with the software, allowing users to, for example, set oven temperatures remotely to preheat the oven before reaching home. The software will also include links to recipes and tips on everything from cooking to washing your clothes.
There is no information on pricing or more detailed release information on the Gorenje made for iPod refrigerator. [via T3]
Despite the name, the software not only works with the Apple devices, but other wireless Internet capable devices such as smart phones and PCs. Gorenje promises to soon reveal more kitchen appliances compatible with the software, allowing users to, for example, set oven temperatures remotely to preheat the oven before reaching home. The software will also include links to recipes and tips on everything from cooking to washing your clothes.
There is no information on pricing or more detailed release information on the Gorenje made for iPod refrigerator. [via T3]
Apple has finally scheduled a date for its long-awaited September publicity event, according to reports. The company has issued invitations to select members of the public, pointing to a gathering at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco, starting at 10AM on September 9th. The invitation also deliberately mimics the Now Playing screens of iPod nanos and classics, suggesting that the event will concentrate heavily on iPods, as anticipated.
New models are rumored to include a fourth-generation Nano, and revised iPod touches, possibly dropped in price to remain competitive with the iPhone 3G. Analysts have also expected Apple to introduce redesigned Pro and basic MacBooks however, as their essential designs have remained unchanged for years.
New models are rumored to include a fourth-generation Nano, and revised iPod touches, possibly dropped in price to remain competitive with the iPhone 3G. Analysts have also expected Apple to introduce redesigned Pro and basic MacBooks however, as their essential designs have remained unchanged for years.
A 2002 Namco arcade game has made its way into the iTunes store for Click Wheel iPods. Star Trigon has players jumping from planet to planet trying to rescue all of the Uchujin characters. Gamers take control of one of three different Star Trigon team members, each with their own specific abilities, and must jump between planets on screen. When a triangle, or "Trigon" is formed around one of the Uchujin characters they are rescued. In order to successfully complete a level the player must rescue all the Uchujin before their air supply runs out, or before they miss jump and float away into space.
The game is available in the iTunes store as a $5 download.
The game is available in the iTunes store as a $5 download.
Size specifications for two new iPods have been revealed, an alleged leak suggests. The first set is for the widely-rumored fourth-generation Nano, and appears to back the belief that the Nano will return to a tall and narrow shape, eschewing the shorter and "fatter" dimensions of the third-generation player. It is believed however to measure 90.75x38.75x6.08mm, slightly taller and thicker than the second-gen Nano, if smaller in terms of width. The second-gen player measured 90x40x6.5mm.
Also leaked are plans for a second-generation Touch, said to have been altered to resemble the iPhone 3G. This is evidenced mainly by the tapered back, but also by what may be volume controls on the side, a departure from the nearly buttonless first-gen version. The new player is also claimed to be larger than its predecessor in most respects, measuring 111x61.8x8.4mm instead of 110x61.8x8.4mm; it would still be smaller than the iPhone 3G though, which rates at 115.5x62.1x12.3mm.
Also leaked are plans for a second-generation Touch, said to have been altered to resemble the iPhone 3G. This is evidenced mainly by the tapered back, but also by what may be volume controls on the side, a departure from the nearly buttonless first-gen version. The new player is also claimed to be larger than its predecessor in most respects, measuring 111x61.8x8.4mm instead of 110x61.8x8.4mm; it would still be smaller than the iPhone 3G though, which rates at 115.5x62.1x12.3mm.
Fairway 1.0, a new virtual caddy application for the iPhone and iPod touch, has been released to the App Store. Fairway lets golfers manage everything relevant to their game including bags, clubs and swings. The interface has a golfer drag a golf ball distance meter to enter their distance from the pin, and then select their location on the course. The golfer will then be presented with ideal club and swing options, as well as notes they may have entered about a particular style of shot.
Fairway is available for download at a price of $10.
Fairway is available for download at a price of $10.
Regular shoppers at the iTunes Store should not expect any announcements on the content side of the equation in the near future, rumors indicate. CNET cites anonymous sources, who say that people should not expect Apple to announce any new music content at its special iPod event on September 9th. More specifically, the sources claim they are certain Apple will not introduce a long-rumored subscription option for iTunes.
Such a service would compete with the likes of Rhapsody and Napster, which offer people an effectively unlimited supply of tracks for a monthly fee, at the expense of permanent ownership. One option Apple is said to have contemplated involves offering unlimited iTunes access with the addition of a premium to iPods and iPhones; even if the company wanted something like this, however, its major-label licenses are said by sources to be limited to current download schemes.
In a similar manner, the sources say that people should not expect a Last.fm-style social networking site announced anytime soon, because this would require licenses for streaming.
Such a service would compete with the likes of Rhapsody and Napster, which offer people an effectively unlimited supply of tracks for a monthly fee, at the expense of permanent ownership. One option Apple is said to have contemplated involves offering unlimited iTunes access with the addition of a premium to iPods and iPhones; even if the company wanted something like this, however, its major-label licenses are said by sources to be limited to current download schemes.
In a similar manner, the sources say that people should not expect a Last.fm-style social networking site announced anytime soon, because this would require licenses for streaming.
Apple's event scheduled for September 9th may be very narrowly focused, says analyst Shaw Wu of American Technology Research. Wu notes that aside from the invitation image, which clearly references iPods, supply chain checks suggest that the event will be almost exclusively iPod-focused, likely excluding the new Macs expected by other research groups such as Piper Jaffray.
Changes to the iPod lineup may also be minor, at least in comparison to 2007. Wu anticipates a "modestly redesigned" fourth-generation Nano, and a thinner second-gen Touch, which may also be cheaper while incorporating more memory. In limbo is the iPod classic, whose quantities may be on the decline, due to what Wu identifies as an increasingly niche status.
Wu argues that redesigned MacBooks are indeed in development, but will instead be announced after the 9th. The AmTech outlook for Apple stock posits a $220 price target, based on 32.5x of a CY09 EPS of $6.73.
Changes to the iPod lineup may also be minor, at least in comparison to 2007. Wu anticipates a "modestly redesigned" fourth-generation Nano, and a thinner second-gen Touch, which may also be cheaper while incorporating more memory. In limbo is the iPod classic, whose quantities may be on the decline, due to what Wu identifies as an increasingly niche status.
Wu argues that redesigned MacBooks are indeed in development, but will instead be announced after the 9th. The AmTech outlook for Apple stock posits a $220 price target, based on 32.5x of a CY09 EPS of $6.73.
The iPhone version of Spore is due on Sunday, says Electronic Arts Mobile. Called Spore Origins iPhone, the game will not be a port of the computer or clickwheel iPod versions of Spore, but a reworked title meant to take advantage of the iPhone's graphics, multi-touch interface and accelerometer. It will arrive on the same day the game officially launches on the Mac and PC. EA Producer Mike Pagano tells MacNN his team spent months working with iPhone SDK, and was "surprised at its capabilities."
Unlike the Mac and PC versions -- which begin with microorganisms that evolve into a modern civilization -- the iPhone game is confined to the cellular phase, set in an ancient tidepool. The objective instead becomes staying on top of the food chain, surviving 35 levels of play. An initial port of Spore was among the first games demonstrated on the iPhone SDK back in March. It was created in about two weeks (see video), but since that time, Pagano says EA developers discovered the iPhone SDK could do "a ton of stuff" they had not expected. Programmers were able to use the iPhone's hardware acceleration to create levels of parallax, image meshes and 3D graphics that we previously unavailable on mobile devices.
Spore Origins is said to make extensive use of multi-touch, notably in the Creature Editor, where people rely on finger gestures to add eyeballs, fins, scales and other body parts. Once the game begins, the iPhone's accelerometer controls the creature as it fights to stay alive and/or evolve. Players must tilt, twist and rotate the device to slip across the tidepool. Pagano says the iPhone version was designed for intermittent play -- users can pause the game and resume play in a spare moment. The game likewise has separate Evolution and Survival modes, with various backgrounds including underwater caverns.
"It's intentionally a different experience," says Pagano, "it should provide three to five hours of gameplay depending on skill."
A disappointment for iPhone users may be the inability to download creatures or play online against others. But Pagano says that the game does allow users to import textures or images -- including photos of their own faces -- when designing creatures. Snapshots can also be e-mailed or exported to share with friends on MySpace, and other social networking sites.
The success of games like Sega's Super Monkey Ball have shown the iPhone's potential as a gaming platform, Pagano adds, but they are just the tip of the iceberg. He says the device is "a totally viable platform," and programmers are just beginning to exploit its features. He compares the iPhone to the Sony PlayStation 1, which took time to catch on as developers moved away from cartridge-based games to CD-ROMs.
EA Mobile says it has nine other game titles in development for the iPhone and iPod touch: Yahtzee Adventures, EA Mini Golf, Lemonade Tycoon, Mahjong, Monopoly: Here & Now The World Edition, Sim City, Tiger Woods 09, Need for Speed Undercover, and The Sims 3.
Spore is already available for clickwheel iPods for $5 at the iTunes Store. Spore Origins for the iPhone and iPod Touch is expected to cost $10.
Unlike the Mac and PC versions -- which begin with microorganisms that evolve into a modern civilization -- the iPhone game is confined to the cellular phase, set in an ancient tidepool. The objective instead becomes staying on top of the food chain, surviving 35 levels of play. An initial port of Spore was among the first games demonstrated on the iPhone SDK back in March. It was created in about two weeks (see video), but since that time, Pagano says EA developers discovered the iPhone SDK could do "a ton of stuff" they had not expected. Programmers were able to use the iPhone's hardware acceleration to create levels of parallax, image meshes and 3D graphics that we previously unavailable on mobile devices.
Spore Origins is said to make extensive use of multi-touch, notably in the Creature Editor, where people rely on finger gestures to add eyeballs, fins, scales and other body parts. Once the game begins, the iPhone's accelerometer controls the creature as it fights to stay alive and/or evolve. Players must tilt, twist and rotate the device to slip across the tidepool. Pagano says the iPhone version was designed for intermittent play -- users can pause the game and resume play in a spare moment. The game likewise has separate Evolution and Survival modes, with various backgrounds including underwater caverns.
"It's intentionally a different experience," says Pagano, "it should provide three to five hours of gameplay depending on skill."
A disappointment for iPhone users may be the inability to download creatures or play online against others. But Pagano says that the game does allow users to import textures or images -- including photos of their own faces -- when designing creatures. Snapshots can also be e-mailed or exported to share with friends on MySpace, and other social networking sites.
The success of games like Sega's Super Monkey Ball have shown the iPhone's potential as a gaming platform, Pagano adds, but they are just the tip of the iceberg. He says the device is "a totally viable platform," and programmers are just beginning to exploit its features. He compares the iPhone to the Sony PlayStation 1, which took time to catch on as developers moved away from cartridge-based games to CD-ROMs.
EA Mobile says it has nine other game titles in development for the iPhone and iPod touch: Yahtzee Adventures, EA Mini Golf, Lemonade Tycoon, Mahjong, Monopoly: Here & Now The World Edition, Sim City, Tiger Woods 09, Need for Speed Undercover, and The Sims 3.
Spore is already available for clickwheel iPods for $5 at the iTunes Store. Spore Origins for the iPhone and iPod Touch is expected to cost $10.
Fabio Policarpo has introduced iTracer, an iPhone app allowing 3D modeling and rendering, according to Architosh. Using many tools found in full-blown modeling software, designs are modeled in two dimensions with a curve editor, allowing tuning and addition of vertices. Extrusion and revolution surfaces can be used for 3D modeling. Scaling, panning, rotating, or translating adjustments are made with the multi-touch interface.
The integrated material editor offers refraction, opacity, self illumination, and diffuse or specular components. Shadows can be cast from different light sources, with recognition of transparency. Procedural objects are supported for quicker rendering and added accuracy. The 3D renderings can be built from any viewpoint, and saved to the phone memory for future reference.
iTracer for the iPhone is availabe from iTunes for $4, with any future updates included for free. The developer is already planning on improving the camera, adding photo backgrounds that reflect/refract through objects, and an undo system.
The integrated material editor offers refraction, opacity, self illumination, and diffuse or specular components. Shadows can be cast from different light sources, with recognition of transparency. Procedural objects are supported for quicker rendering and added accuracy. The 3D renderings can be built from any viewpoint, and saved to the phone memory for future reference.
iTracer for the iPhone is availabe from iTunes for $4, with any future updates included for free. The developer is already planning on improving the camera, adding photo backgrounds that reflect/refract through objects, and an undo system.
Ambrosia Software today announced its latest iPhone app, Mondo Top 5 Solitaire. Five popular solitaire variants are included: FreeCell, Golf, Klondike, Pyramid, and Spider. A magnifying glass and paper clip tool are offered to assist gameplay, and if a round gets interrupted, it can be picked up where it was left off simply by tapping the game icon. Mondo Top 5 Solitaire is available from iTunes for $3.
TUNEWEAR has announced new leather cases for the iPhone 3G, the PRIE Ambassador for iPhone 3G and the LeatherShell for iPhone 3G. The PRIE Ambassador case is an around-the-body leather case with an attached metal clip. All ports, sensors and the iPhone's camera remain open and accessible, and the case features a cardholder on its back for IDs, business cards and more. The cases are available in black (with either red or white stitching), gold, gold and white and silver. They are available for $60 and include a TUNEFILM clear film for the iPhone's display.
The LeatherShell for iPhone 3G is a smooth-leather black case, covering the back of the phone and wrapping the corners, with an open face. It features white stitching and open ports for the phone's controls and camera. The leather exterior is combined with a polycarbonate interior shell for safeguarding the phone from scratches. It retails for $30.
The LeatherShell for iPhone 3G is a smooth-leather black case, covering the back of the phone and wrapping the corners, with an open face. It features white stitching and open ports for the phone's controls and camera. The leather exterior is combined with a polycarbonate interior shell for safeguarding the phone from scratches. It retails for $30.
I-play has released a new game at the App Store, Jewel Quest II. The title is a puzzle adventure based on the original Jewel Quest, and has players hunting for hidden jewels. Players follow Rupert as he picks up a new treasure trail in Africa, and guide him through over 50 different puzzles, a developing storyline, and iPhone/iPod touch-specific gameplay.
Jewel Quest II is available for purchase for $9.
Jewel Quest II is available for purchase for $9.
Master Lock, a maker of locks and other security products, has released a style of combination lock designed specifically for iPods. The iCage is built of durable metal, and clips around the outside of an iPod's body. The lock allows users to set their own combination for convenience, and features a cable that secures an iPod to a fixed object. Each iCage also comes with three full-body thermoplastic iWRAPrs for scratch protection.
The iCage has been built for both second- and third-generation iPod nanos, as well as the iPod classic; prices for the products are $15 and $20, respectively. The Classic model is available now, while the second-generation Nano model will ship in September, and the third-gen Nano model is slated as "coming soon."
The iCage has been built for both second- and third-generation iPod nanos, as well as the iPod classic; prices for the products are $15 and $20, respectively. The Classic model is available now, while the second-generation Nano model will ship in September, and the third-gen Nano model is slated as "coming soon."
A new line of fourth-generation iPod nano cases have become available, supporting alleged leaks pointing towards the concept of a taller Nano with a Zune-like screen. Wrapprz.com has added a new group of vinyl skins to its product line, specifically advertised as for the yet-unannounced player. The skins are in fact cut to fit a taller player with a larger screen, and additionally feature a choice of custom artwork.
There are almost 80 different patterns, and each case is selling for $17. The Wrapprz models are not the first line of cases released for Apple's rumored player; a company called Hama displayed a similar case design earlier this week.
There are almost 80 different patterns, and each case is selling for $17. The Wrapprz models are not the first line of cases released for Apple's rumored player; a company called Hama displayed a similar case design earlier this week.
PhoneSaber -- an iPhone/iPod touch application that was pulled from the App Store nearly a month ago -- may be resurfacing in the next couple of weeks, according to reports. THQ Wireless owns the rights to Star Wars development on mobile devices, and asked TheMacBox to pull PhoneSaber voluntarily, with the intent to publish a rebranded version.
The original developers of the app, TheMacBox, are said to have been working alongside THQ to develop the new version, which is expected to be titled Phone Saber Unleashed. This would likely tie it in with Star Wars: The Force Unleashed, a series of new console games also due this month.
The original developers of the app, TheMacBox, are said to have been working alongside THQ to develop the new version, which is expected to be titled Phone Saber Unleashed. This would likely tie it in with Star Wars: The Force Unleashed, a series of new console games also due this month.
MyWeather has published MyWeather Mobile for the iPhone, allowing users to access weather maps, conditions, forecasts and a full-screen interactive radar. The app combines Microsoft's Virtual Earth technology with animated radar, giving users a view of an area's weather patterns, along with points of interest like golf courses, stadiums and schools. With an iPhone in horizontal orientation, MyWeather enters full-screen mode, supporting pinch and flick gestures with the option of zooming down to street-level weather views.
MyWeather also offers precise data, such as temperature, wind speed and precipitation, and tracks 12-hour weather trends using GPS to determine a precise location. For convenience's sake, the app can store multiple locations simultaneously.
MyWeather Mobile works with both iPhones and iPod touches, and costs $15 at the iTunes App Store.
MyWeather also offers precise data, such as temperature, wind speed and precipitation, and tracks 12-hour weather trends using GPS to determine a precise location. For convenience's sake, the app can store multiple locations simultaneously.
MyWeather Mobile works with both iPhones and iPod touches, and costs $15 at the iTunes App Store.
Apple's special iPod event on September 9th should see the release of two anticipated software updates, a report claims. One anonymous source "close to the situation" is cited as saying that iTunes 8, frequently expected to launch on the 9th, is indeed scheduled to go online at that date. It is rumored to bring with it a number of changes, such as the "Genius" recommendation feature, a grid view, and HD-quality TV episodes through the iTunes Store.
A separate source suggests that the iPhone 2.1 firmware will be released simultaneously, upgrading phones with background push notification as well as directional GPS, which may enable turn-by-turn navigation. Apple is further said to have kept some features out of developer seeds, with the aim of surprising the public and/or rivals. What these components might include is unclear.
A separate source suggests that the iPhone 2.1 firmware will be released simultaneously, upgrading phones with background push notification as well as directional GPS, which may enable turn-by-turn navigation. Apple is further said to have kept some features out of developer seeds, with the aim of surprising the public and/or rivals. What these components might include is unclear.
Photos of the banner for Apple's upcoming event on September 9th have surfaced. The building-sized banner sports a green background, and a dancing silhouette that has become common to iPod advertising. One detail noticed by iPhone Savior is the iPod in the figure's hand, which is similar in shape to a second-generation Nano, supporting fourth-generation rumors laid out by Kevin Rose, as well as a photo obtained by MacNN.
Other accounts have come in noting that security around the area is fairly tight. A police officer and three Apple security guards have been spotted guarding a trailer across from the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, located near the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, where Apple's event is taking place.
Other accounts have come in noting that security around the area is fairly tight. A police officer and three Apple security guards have been spotted guarding a trailer across from the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, located near the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, where Apple's event is taking place.
Apple has finally given credit to a British man whose work was the inspiration behind the iPod, claims the Daily Mail. Kane Kramer, 52, is said to have created the technology that powers the digital music player nearly 30 years ago, but not received any royalties. Kramer original designed a device he called the IXI in 1979; though it would only have been capable of storing 3.5 minutes of music on a chip, Kramer was hopeful that capacity would improve over time.
Sketches outlined a credit-card sized player with a rectangular screen, and a central menu button to scroll through a selection of music tracks. Kramer acquired a worldwide patent and set up a company to further develop the concept, but after boardroom problems in 1988, he was unable to raise �60,000 needed to renew patents across 120 countries, leaving his idea public property.
Recognition of Kramer did not occur until Apple called upon him to help defend itself against Burst.com, which claimed to hold patents to technology in the iPod and deserve a cut of the profits.
Kramer is presently in negotiations with Apple for compensation relating to copyright on his drawings. To date, he has received only a consultancy fee for providing his expertise in the Burst case.
"To be honest, I was just so pleased that finally something that I had done which has been a huge success and changed the music industry was being acknowledged," says Kramer. "I was really quite emotional about it all."
Sketches outlined a credit-card sized player with a rectangular screen, and a central menu button to scroll through a selection of music tracks. Kramer acquired a worldwide patent and set up a company to further develop the concept, but after boardroom problems in 1988, he was unable to raise �60,000 needed to renew patents across 120 countries, leaving his idea public property.
Recognition of Kramer did not occur until Apple called upon him to help defend itself against Burst.com, which claimed to hold patents to technology in the iPod and deserve a cut of the profits.
Kramer is presently in negotiations with Apple for compensation relating to copyright on his drawings. To date, he has received only a consultancy fee for providing his expertise in the Burst case.
"To be honest, I was just so pleased that finally something that I had done which has been a huge success and changed the music industry was being acknowledged," says Kramer. "I was really quite emotional about it all."
Bad Dog Apps has launched BdPricer for the iPhone and iPod touch. The shopping companion app tracks item prices live or with data from saved searches, and uses a directory of 15 major product categories containing over 3,000 items. The app is intended for checking prices before shopping, or alternately negotiating a better deal; listings also contain features and reviews, plus the option to buy goods online.
BdPricer requires an Internet or 3G connection for live pricing, and is available for $5 at the iTunes App Store.
BdPricer requires an Internet or 3G connection for live pricing, and is available for $5 at the iTunes App Store.
Some unexpected factors could play into tomorrow's scheduled iPod event, argues Piper Jaffray. The research firm suggests for instance that it is unclear if Apple CEO Steve Jobs will be presenting, even though he usually does so; such speculation is based on ongoing rumors of ill health, originally sparked by a gaunt appearance at June's WWDC meeting. Piper says it is "confident" that Jobs will appear, however, in a move that could reassure nervous investors.
It also suggested that Apple may release a hardware update for the Apple TV, implementing features such as DVR functionality, which would place the set-top in competition with products like TiVo. Apple may also be interested in releasing audio accessories such as wireless speakers, but both this and the Apple TV upgrade are categorized as "unlikely wildcards."
Believed to be more certain are redesigned Nanos and Touches, and new capacities matched with lower prices for the Classic and Shuffle. It is also expected that Apple will not announce new MacBooks tomorrow, though a redesign is considered overdue, and may be revealed sometime this fall.
It also suggested that Apple may release a hardware update for the Apple TV, implementing features such as DVR functionality, which would place the set-top in competition with products like TiVo. Apple may also be interested in releasing audio accessories such as wireless speakers, but both this and the Apple TV upgrade are categorized as "unlikely wildcards."
Believed to be more certain are redesigned Nanos and Touches, and new capacities matched with lower prices for the Classic and Shuffle. It is also expected that Apple will not announce new MacBooks tomorrow, though a redesign is considered overdue, and may be revealed sometime this fall.
Apple today introduced the anticipated fourth-generation iPod nano. The model is said to combine the best of the second-generation player's shape with the large screen and video playback of the third-generation model but is even thinner and adds an enhanced, accelerometer-driven interface that rotates the on-screen interface; this improves the use of Cover Flow and even photo browsing, Apple says. Users can even shake the player to shuffle tracks similar to SanDisk's Sansa Shaker.
The new software also automatically builds in voice recording and has a context-sensitive menu that appears just by holding the center button.
Apple claims the same 24 hours of audio and four hours of video as with the third-generation player, but also a more environmentally-friendly device with an aluminum exterior, arsenic-free glass and toxin-free internals. It's the "cleanest iPod ever," Apple chief Steve Jobs says.
The nano will ship in an 8GB model for $149 and a 16GB version for $199; nine colors will be available and include more exotic colors such as orange and yellow. Most models should be available by the weekend, though the 16GB may be delayed to early next week.
Apple is also introducing new high-end earphones with a built-in play/pause control that works similar to the iPhone's: double-clicking skips to the next track, while three clicks skip backwards. The optional earbuds cost $79 and come with three different fits for different ears.
Additionally, Apple has also announced a slightly upgraded iPod classic; the company is scrapping the 160GB model and now just offers a single 120GB model in silver or black. It will sell for $249 and should be available in a similar timeframe.
The new software also automatically builds in voice recording and has a context-sensitive menu that appears just by holding the center button.
Apple claims the same 24 hours of audio and four hours of video as with the third-generation player, but also a more environmentally-friendly device with an aluminum exterior, arsenic-free glass and toxin-free internals. It's the "cleanest iPod ever," Apple chief Steve Jobs says.
The nano will ship in an 8GB model for $149 and a 16GB version for $199; nine colors will be available and include more exotic colors such as orange and yellow. Most models should be available by the weekend, though the 16GB may be delayed to early next week.
Apple is also introducing new high-end earphones with a built-in play/pause control that works similar to the iPhone's: double-clicking skips to the next track, while three clicks skip backwards. The optional earbuds cost $79 and come with three different fits for different ears.
Additionally, Apple has also announced a slightly upgraded iPod classic; the company is scrapping the 160GB model and now just offers a single 120GB model in silver or black. It will sell for $249 and should be available in a similar timeframe.
Apple has announced the release of iTunes 8, the latest version of its music software for Macs and PCs. Features in the new software include "Genius" playlists, which automatically match songs thought to go together. iTunes can also recommend tracks to buy via a sidebar, and recommendations will be based on anonymous uploads of user data, meant to gradually improve the accuracy of what shoppers are offered in the future.
Another feature of the update is a grid-based album browsing view, an alternative to CoverFlow which lets users sort by criteria such as artist.
The announcement brings with it the availability of HD TV episodes through the US iTunes Store, where people were previously restricted to near-DVD quality. Notable in the debut is the return of NBC, which had previously deserted iTunes on the basis of conflicts over pricing. The network has since provided shows for other iTunes storefronts however, such as the UK. HD TV shows are priced $2.99 each.
[Photo courtesy of Gizmodo]
Another feature of the update is a grid-based album browsing view, an alternative to CoverFlow which lets users sort by criteria such as artist.
The announcement brings with it the availability of HD TV episodes through the US iTunes Store, where people were previously restricted to near-DVD quality. Notable in the debut is the return of NBC, which had previously deserted iTunes on the basis of conflicts over pricing. The network has since provided shows for other iTunes storefronts however, such as the UK. HD TV shows are priced $2.99 each.
[Photo courtesy of Gizmodo]
Apple has confirmed rumors by revealing the existence of a second-generation iPod touch, bringing with it several enhancements. Central is a revised casing, which uses a contoured profile similar in shape to the iPhone 3G, but with stainless steel replacing plastic. Other similarities with the iPhone include new volume buttons, allowing blind adjustment, and a speaker, from which owners can hear both music and system sounds.
Apple has also integrated the Nike+ sport system into the device, not only through the inclusion of software support, but a built-in receiver that only demands the standard shoe transmitter to match. The company has lastly tweaked the interface to generate Genius playlists similar to those on the desktop, which can be permanently stored on a touch.
Battery life has been extended on the new touchscreen iPod from 24 to 36 hours for music, while video lasts for up to six hours.
Capacities will remain limited to 8, 16 and 32GB models, but prices have been cut to $229, $299 and $399, respectively. All variants should be available as of today from both retail and the online Apple store.
Apple has also integrated the Nike+ sport system into the device, not only through the inclusion of software support, but a built-in receiver that only demands the standard shoe transmitter to match. The company has lastly tweaked the interface to generate Genius playlists similar to those on the desktop, which can be permanently stored on a touch.
Battery life has been extended on the new touchscreen iPod from 24 to 36 hours for music, while video lasts for up to six hours.
Capacities will remain limited to 8, 16 and 32GB models, but prices have been cut to $229, $299 and $399, respectively. All variants should be available as of today from both retail and the online Apple store.
Amidst its other high-profile announcements, Apple today quietly refreshed the iPod shuffle with new colors. The update swaps out the pale colors from before with five colors largely similar to the early 2007 models in bright blue, green, red, and pink; the red iPod remains a (PRODUCT) RED variant that delivers some of the purchase price to charity and is exclusive to Apple's own online and retail stores.
However, pricing and feature sets remain the same as for the second-generation shuffle since it was introduced in late 2006, and maintain the capacities and prices introduced earlier this year. A 1GB model sells for $49 while a 2GB version is available for $69. Both ship immediately from the online Apple store.
However, pricing and feature sets remain the same as for the second-generation shuffle since it was introduced in late 2006, and maintain the capacities and prices introduced earlier this year. A 1GB model sells for $49 while a 2GB version is available for $69. Both ship immediately from the online Apple store.
Both NBC and Apple have made concessions in the former's return to the US iTunes Store, observers note. The first of these may be variable pricing, such as a higher cost for HD versions of TV shows. Apple is charging $2.99 per HD episode, instead of the standard rate of $1.99; it is not known if this was the result of pressure from NBC however, as Apple has long charged $1 more for HD movie rentals on an Apple TV. What is known is that back-catalog shows -- such as Miami Vice and The A-Team -- are being priced at 99 cents, whereas Apple's original deal with NBC would have called for the regular rate.
NBC's concession appears to be marketing, as the network says iTunes is now a part of its plans for promoting new fall shows, in the same way as its Hulu streaming service. Both Hulu and iTunes will get select shows in advance of their broadcast premiere, like episodes of Knight Rider, My Own Worst Enemy and Kath & Kim.
NBC's concession appears to be marketing, as the network says iTunes is now a part of its plans for promoting new fall shows, in the same way as its Hulu streaming service. Both Hulu and iTunes will get select shows in advance of their broadcast premiere, like episodes of Knight Rider, My Own Worst Enemy and Kath & Kim.
iPhone and iPod touch users have already downloaded over 100 million apps from the iTunes App Store, which has reached the milestone in its first two months of existence, according to Apple. The store is said to have amassed over 3,000 individual titles, with only 10 percent exceeding $10 in cost, and more than 600 being distributed for free.
The rate at which the App Store has grown is claimed by Apple to have surprised developers. SmugMug co-founder Chris MacAskill has seen a 300 percent increase (over all other software sales) in applications purchased from the App Store. "We've been able to do things with our iPhone app that we just couldn't have dreamed of doing on any other mobile platform, so these are revolutionary times for us and for iPhone and iPod touch users," he says.
The rate at which the App Store has grown is claimed by Apple to have surprised developers. SmugMug co-founder Chris MacAskill has seen a 300 percent increase (over all other software sales) in applications purchased from the App Store. "We've been able to do things with our iPhone app that we just couldn't have dreamed of doing on any other mobile platform, so these are revolutionary times for us and for iPhone and iPod touch users," he says.
Apple's fresh iPod-related announcements -- including iTunes 8, along with new Nanos, Touches and Classics -- were a "necessary and appropriate strategy," according to UBS analyst Maynard Um. Rather than pushing any special innovation, Um suggests that the changes were needed to maintain Apple's controlling position in the media player world, where it is faced with competition such as Microsoft's new Zunes.
Um suggests that the price cuts throughout Apple's lines, as deep as $100 in the case of the 16 and 32GB Touches, may prove critical to the iPod's future. They should keep profits and demand high, Um argues, even though they may reduce Apple's gross margins. The analyst further contends that a recent stock pullback does not reflect fundamental problems with Apple, and that the company should have a solid future. UBS has a set a price target for Apple stock of $195, based on 27x of an adjusted FY09 EPS estimate of $7.20.
Um suggests that the price cuts throughout Apple's lines, as deep as $100 in the case of the 16 and 32GB Touches, may prove critical to the iPod's future. They should keep profits and demand high, Um argues, even though they may reduce Apple's gross margins. The analyst further contends that a recent stock pullback does not reflect fundamental problems with Apple, and that the company should have a solid future. UBS has a set a price target for Apple stock of $195, based on 27x of an adjusted FY09 EPS estimate of $7.20.
Although Steve Jobs announced that the iPhone and iPod touch 2.1 software update would be released on Friday, iPod users can already download the update from iTunes. He claimed the new version fixes a lot of bugs, improves app function, enhances security, and makes the sync function faster. A "Genius" function can be used to find similar songs in a library and play them together. Multiple calendars and push functions for Microsoft Exchange are now supported.
Users can now choose from 30 keyboard layouts, 19 dictionaries, or 17 languages. A search box is provided to search through contacts, and a scientific calculator has been included. Email function has also been improved, PowerPoint and iWork attachments can be viewed, messages mass deleted, and replies sent from a different account. Runners can track their progress with an integrated Nike+iPod app.
A bug has been fixed from the previous software which contained a sandbox flaw that would let one application read files from another. Another corrected flaw had allowed arbitrary code execution from maliciously coded font data. The DNS protocol has been strengthened to avoid forged information and cache poisoning from affecting apps that use mDNSResponder. TCP sequence numbers are now randomized to help prevent spoofing or hijacking. WebKit's handling of document references has also been improved to protect against malicious websites.
For iPods that have software version 2.0 already, the upgrade to 2.1 is free. The update will cost $10 for users of version 1.0. The iPhone update has not been made available yet, but can be expected on its official release Friday.
Users can now choose from 30 keyboard layouts, 19 dictionaries, or 17 languages. A search box is provided to search through contacts, and a scientific calculator has been included. Email function has also been improved, PowerPoint and iWork attachments can be viewed, messages mass deleted, and replies sent from a different account. Runners can track their progress with an integrated Nike+iPod app.
A bug has been fixed from the previous software which contained a sandbox flaw that would let one application read files from another. Another corrected flaw had allowed arbitrary code execution from maliciously coded font data. The DNS protocol has been strengthened to avoid forged information and cache poisoning from affecting apps that use mDNSResponder. TCP sequence numbers are now randomized to help prevent spoofing or hijacking. WebKit's handling of document references has also been improved to protect against malicious websites.
For iPods that have software version 2.0 already, the upgrade to 2.1 is free. The update will cost $10 for users of version 1.0. The iPhone update has not been made available yet, but can be expected on its official release Friday.
Although Apple is headed in the right direction, it still hasn't gone far enough in pricing for the iPod touch, claims analyst Shaw Wu of American Technology Research. The new 8, 16 and 32GB models have dropped in cost compared to their predecessors, by as much as $100 in the case of the larger players, but Wu argues that this is still too high, mainly in relation to the terrible economic environment. The other major concern is the iPhone 3G, which is comparatively cheap next to the Touch, even if the former is tied to monthly carrier fees.
Wu notes, however, that supply chain checks indicate Apple is continuing with normal build plans. The analyst also suggests that while the fourth-generation Nano is a "moderate" refresh, he is impressed with the accelerometer and new colors, as well as a $50 price cut for new capacities, which he suggests will make the player an attractive proposition for holiday shoppers.
AmTech is continuing to forecast sales of 11 million iPods for Apple's September quarter, and 24 million in the December quarter.
Wu notes, however, that supply chain checks indicate Apple is continuing with normal build plans. The analyst also suggests that while the fourth-generation Nano is a "moderate" refresh, he is impressed with the accelerometer and new colors, as well as a $50 price cut for new capacities, which he suggests will make the player an attractive proposition for holiday shoppers.
AmTech is continuing to forecast sales of 11 million iPods for Apple's September quarter, and 24 million in the December quarter.
Following the release of new iPod nano, touch and classic models yesterday, Belkin has announced a series of new accessories for each player. The Sports Armband and Sport Armband Plus were made to allow users to quickly attach an iPod to their arm. The Plus version features a FastFit system, which allows one-handed fastening. Both products are compatible with Nike+, and are available for the Nano 4G, Touch 2G and Classic 2G at a price of $30.
The Clear Acrylic Case can be purchased for the same models, with versions molded to fit their respective device. Prices vary; the Nano version costs $25, while the Touch and Classic models cost $30.
The Remix Metal has been designed solely for the Nano 4G and Classic 2G, costing $25 or $30, respectively. It features a metal faceplate molded to the shape of the device, and provides clickwheel protection as well as a choice of four different colors: red, silver, pink and black.
The Sonic Wave Two-Tone Silicone Sleeve is available for all three of the new iPods, and features a two-tone, laser-etched design on a form-fitting silicone enclosure. The case also allows the device to be charged without the need to remove it, and is available in several color options: black/infrared, cool gray/grapefruit, pink/translucent white, black/blue, black/green, black/white and blue/orange. The case costs $20 for the Nano model, $25 for the Touch and $30 for the Classic.
The regular Sonic Wave Silicone Sleeve is similar to its sibling, but features only one color. The cases are sold in packs, each pack includes two different colored cases: black and white, pink and purple or red and grey. The packs cost $20 for each iPod model.
Another silicone option is the Simple Silicone Sleeve, which removes the laser etching and gives users a solid-color casing. The Simple is also sold in packs of two, the Nano models being priced at $15, while the Touch and Classic models cost $20. Color options include black and black, black and blue, pink and translucent as well as red and gray.
A Leather Sleeve has also been designed to fit all of the new iPods. The sleeve has a soft microfiber lining, and additionally allows full use of the iPod while in its case. The Leather Sleeve is available at a cost of $25 for the Nano model, or $30 for the Touch and Classic editions. Color options include black and pink, or in "eco-conscious" options that are vegetable-tanned rather than chemically stained, black and walnut.
A Leather Folio is being released for the Nano and Touch, which fully encloses an iPod in a leather case but has a flap on the font that can be opened for access. The case is available in black or pink, or again in eco-friendly models that come in black or walnut. The case sells for $25 or $30, respectively.
The Leather Pull-Tab Holster is intended for the Touch and Classic, and encloses an iPod while sealing it with a pull tab on top. The case is available for $30 for both players.
Belkin is also releasing screen overlays for all of the new iPod models, in packs of three. The overlays will cost $13 for the Nano, and $15 for the Touch and Classic.
All of these products will become available mid-September.
Sports Armband
Sport Armband Plus
Clear Acrylic Case
Remix Metal
Sonic Wave Two-Tone Silicone Sleeve
Sonic Wave Silicone Sleeve
Simple Silicone Sleeve
Leather Sleeve
Eco-Conscious Sleeve
Leather Folio
Eco-Conscious Folio
Leather Pull-Tab Holster
The Clear Acrylic Case can be purchased for the same models, with versions molded to fit their respective device. Prices vary; the Nano version costs $25, while the Touch and Classic models cost $30.
The Remix Metal has been designed solely for the Nano 4G and Classic 2G, costing $25 or $30, respectively. It features a metal faceplate molded to the shape of the device, and provides clickwheel protection as well as a choice of four different colors: red, silver, pink and black.
The Sonic Wave Two-Tone Silicone Sleeve is available for all three of the new iPods, and features a two-tone, laser-etched design on a form-fitting silicone enclosure. The case also allows the device to be charged without the need to remove it, and is available in several color options: black/infrared, cool gray/grapefruit, pink/translucent white, black/blue, black/green, black/white and blue/orange. The case costs $20 for the Nano model, $25 for the Touch and $30 for the Classic.
The regular Sonic Wave Silicone Sleeve is similar to its sibling, but features only one color. The cases are sold in packs, each pack includes two different colored cases: black and white, pink and purple or red and grey. The packs cost $20 for each iPod model.
Another silicone option is the Simple Silicone Sleeve, which removes the laser etching and gives users a solid-color casing. The Simple is also sold in packs of two, the Nano models being priced at $15, while the Touch and Classic models cost $20. Color options include black and black, black and blue, pink and translucent as well as red and gray.
A Leather Sleeve has also been designed to fit all of the new iPods. The sleeve has a soft microfiber lining, and additionally allows full use of the iPod while in its case. The Leather Sleeve is available at a cost of $25 for the Nano model, or $30 for the Touch and Classic editions. Color options include black and pink, or in "eco-conscious" options that are vegetable-tanned rather than chemically stained, black and walnut.
A Leather Folio is being released for the Nano and Touch, which fully encloses an iPod in a leather case but has a flap on the font that can be opened for access. The case is available in black or pink, or again in eco-friendly models that come in black or walnut. The case sells for $25 or $30, respectively.
The Leather Pull-Tab Holster is intended for the Touch and Classic, and encloses an iPod while sealing it with a pull tab on top. The case is available for $30 for both players.
Belkin is also releasing screen overlays for all of the new iPod models, in packs of three. The overlays will cost $13 for the Nano, and $15 for the Touch and Classic.
All of these products will become available mid-September.
Sports Armband
Sport Armband Plus
Clear Acrylic Case
Remix Metal
Sonic Wave Two-Tone Silicone Sleeve
Sonic Wave Silicone Sleeve
Simple Silicone Sleeve
Leather Sleeve
Eco-Conscious Sleeve
Leather Folio
Eco-Conscious Folio
Leather Pull-Tab Holster
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